Management Information Systems Summit
The Management Information Systems Summit connected students with technology and entrepreneurship professionals, who shared experience of digital transformation, innovative solutions and business development.
Entrepreneurship and Digital Transformation in Professional Training
The Management Information Systems Summit hosted by Istanbul Nişantaşı University began with opening remarks by Club President Arda Kaplan. Asst. Prof. Dr. Tuğba Dayıoğlu then discussed digital transformation’s effects on business. Highlighting the advantages of strategically using information technology, she explained that the interdisciplinary nature of Management Information Systems builds bridges between students and industry representatives.
Ferisoft CEO Ferkan Akyazıcı, one of the summit’s prominent speakers, outlined the company’s work under its vision, “Shaping the Digital Future with Innovative Solutions.” He described activities ranging from mobile applications and artificial intelligence solutions to integrated software systems and map-based software. Its AI teams, established in early 2024, achieved successful results in four projects in Türkiye and Germany. He emphasized that Ferisoft also supports entrepreneurs and contributes to the start-up ecosystem.
DİZAYN VİP Founder Erbakan Malkoç inspired young people with his talk, “Recognizing Your Youth: Your True Power Lies Within You.” He said that changing one’s life does not require an external force and that individuals can chart their own paths through personal effort. Describing youth as the most productive period of life, he emphasized making the most of ages 16–25 and taking action without delay.
Atolyewolf Jewelry Founder Coşkun Güneş shared experiences from his entrepreneurial journey. Although many support mechanisms now exist to turn ideas into reality, he said that the main obstacle is a lack of courage. He described the direct connections formed with users as the most meaningful aspect of entrepreneurship, offering a foundation for strong, trust-based communication beyond customer relations.
BOB GYM Founder Barış Okan Belovacıklı stated that entrepreneurship in the fitness industry is directly linked to economic conditions. Recalling rapid growth through personal training clubs with limited capital 12 years ago, he explained that a similar start is much more difficult today. He highlighted the significant risks economic uncertainty creates for entrepreneurs and the importance of innovative solutions for the industry’s future.
Finally, anatomical haircut specialist Kadir Alkan noted that entrepreneurship is tested by resistance from one’s social environment as well as economic challenges. Describing how his journey from a 10-square-metre shop developed into an international brand with 23 branches and 250 employees, he demonstrated that determination and belief can overcome obstacles.
Concluding with inspiring talks, the Management Information Systems Summit attracted strong interest and offered valuable perspectives on entrepreneurship and digital transformation.
